Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, the First Lady of Pakistan, was honored with the Soft Diplomacy Award during a ceremony held at the UAE Consulate in Karachi, marking Pakistan’s Independence Day. The award recognizes her dedicated efforts in combating polio and her successful advocacy for UAE support in vaccination campaigns across Balochistan. The ceremony also celebrated FaryalTalpur, President of the Pakistan Peoples Party Women’s Wing, for her role in fostering UAE-Pakistan relations.
The Soft Diplomacy Award, part of the UAE Consulate’s initiative, highlights significant contributions to enhancing diplomatic and humanitarian ties between the two nations.
Bhutto Zardari’s relentless advocacy has been crucial in securing UAE assistance for one of Pakistan’s most pressing health challenges—the fight against polio. In her acceptance speech, Bhutto Zardari conveyed profound gratitude and reaffirmed her dedication to polio eradication. She underscored the importance of international collaboration in health initiatives and commended the UAE for its robust support, especially in Balochistan.
“The fight against polio is a shared responsibility,” she stated. “It pains me that we remain one of only two countries still grappling with this disease. I am committed to achieving a polio-free Pakistan and grateful for the UAE’s steadfast support.” Bhutto Zardari also lauded the enduring friendship between Pakistan and the UAE, noting the UAE’s support during crises, including polio outbreaks, earthquakes, and floods. She praised the UAE’s leadership and emphasized the personal significance of her relationship with Dubai, describing it as a second home.
The award ceremony, attended by distinguished guests, diplomats, and sector representatives, also featured a plantation drive as part of the Green Pakistan Initiative, further reflecting the strong bilateral cooperation and commitment to shared goals.
